Good evening, Central New York. We're wrapping up the day for you with the most important stories you need to know and your weather outlook.

Your Weather Planner

Steady rain continues for Central New York and the Southern Tier. Freezing rain will continue along the St. Lawrence Valley and higher up in the Adirondacks. Slippery travel is likely. Steady rain will move out early Thursday, leaving behind areas of mist and fog. Another round of rain will arrive Thursday night into Friday. While the weekend starts off dry, Sunday may bring rain and snow.

Tomorrow's Forecast

Central NY Hourly Forecast | Southern Tier Hourly Forecast | Northern New York Hourly Forecast
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Today's Big Stories

1. DOT center playing crucial role during winter storms

When a winter storm blankets upstate New York, plow drivers play a crucial role in keeping their communities safe. But behind the scenes are a group of individuals you may have never heard of, but their jobs are just as important. Staff at DOT Traffic Operation Centers across the state are the eyes in the skies, tasked with monitoring roadways and weather, and alerting emergency crews and the public if need be.

2. 10th Mountain Division finds opportunity in snowstorm

Last week’s snowstorm was something most people would be happy to not see again for some time. However, in the North Country, it was a chance for soldiers to practice in conditions they may see overseas — and conditions the first soldiers of Fort Drum’s 10th Mountain Division trained in approximately 80 years ago.

3. Hochul, N.Y. leaders reignite fight to protect abortion rights

The governor joined hundreds of people in the state Legislative Office Building in Albany on Wednesday to participate in Planned Parenthood's Empire State Act's Day of Action pushing for the year's legislative agenda.

4. Cultural programs across New York to receive funding boost

More than $8 million for nearly 300 grants distributed by the National Endowment for the Arts is going to organizations across New York state, Sen. Chuck Schumer and Sen. Kirsten Gillibrand announced Wednesday.

5. New Year, New You: How to navigate a career change or promotion

As we continue our New Year, New You series, we're looking at the workforce. The new year is a time for many to look for a career change, or an opportunity to move up within their current company.

6. Why snow vitally matters to New York, a scientist explains

Why does snow matter? Is that a question that’s ever crossed your mind? It is more than fun for sledding, skiing, and snowballs. Brace yourselves for the answer, because there are big implications. From acting like an air conditioner for the Earth to helping communities have drinking water, snow is important.